Chargers' Trevor Williams, Desmond King were dominant against run in 2017

The Chargers defense struggled mightily against the run in 2017, and a lot of that had to do with the poor execution of the interior defensive line and linebackers. However, two surprise players in cornerbacks Trevor Williams and Desmond King excelled at slowing down running backs, as both finished in the top three in run stops for players at their position, per Pro Football Focus (PFF).

Williams ranked No. 2 overall among all corners with 14 total run stops, while King was right behind him at No. 3 with 13 stops, proving that Los Angeles’ secondary can do much more than just cover opposing wide receivers and tight ends.

With CB Jason Verrett out with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee, Williams played a vital role in a secondary that allowed only a single receiver to reach the 100-yard mark. He amassed 55 total tackles, including two for loss, two interceptions, 13 passes defended, and two special teams tackles.

Meanwhile, King saw 716 defensive snaps for L.A. on the season or 68.3 percent of the team’s defensive plays overall. Only six players on the team were on the field more on the defensive side of the ball, and King saw more snaps than any rookie (offensive or defensive) on the roster.

The former Hawkeyes DB finished his first season with 76 tackles (66 solo), one interception, five pass defensed and four sacks.